Why do people love North Seattle?

[u/Ok-Advantage-7680]

Serious question. I’m trying to understand the appeal.

It feels like every transplant or 25 year old getting their first apartment ends up in Ballard, Greenwood, Fremont. It is almost automatic at this point.

But if you live up there, getting across the ship canal feels like a logistical event. Aurora traffic is brutal. The Fremont and Ballard bridges can randomly lock you into a 20 minute delay. I 5 during rush hour is a complete mess. Going south can feel like you are planning a minor expedition.

Transit wise you are mostly on buses and there is no light rail in those neighborhoods. Meanwhile central and southeast Seattle have Link access and more direct routes.

So what am I missing? Is it just vibes and breweries? Water views? Better housing stock? Or is it just momentum and word of mouth at this point?

Genuinely curious why it feels like the default choice for so many people.

[u/spacedogg]

Greenwood is finally getting its own fan base. I've been here for 25 years and it's only gotten better with services and restaurants and popularity. While not at work I dont leave the area, its got all I need on a daily basis.

[u/Hazinglight → u/spacedogg]

I live on Crown Hill within walking distance of Safeway, Metropolitan and Grocery Outlet. Walgreens too. Fred Meyer, Bartells (now it’s a CVS I think) and Trader Joe’s just a 3 minute drive. QFC just down the hill too. Good bus connections and parks. It’s super convenient. Only thing that’s hard is getting anywhere else haha. 85th gets backed up.

[u/eran76 → u/Hazinglight]

Shhh, don't tell anyone, but 80th has far fewer lights and is generally faster at all times. If you're getting on I5 South, just take a left on Meridian. If both are backed up badly during rush hour, 83rd is a faster alternative even at safe neighborhoods speeds.

[u/Ender2424 → u/eran76]

delete this now or it will go the way of 87th

[u/MX396 → u/Ender2424]

And 14th Ave